Antec New Solution NSK 3480 MicroATX Tower Review

Introduction:

Choosing a case for a new build means different things for different individuals. An enthusiast, most likely, will want the latest and greatest mid to full size tower with plenty of cooling capacity, so temperatures of the internal components stay nice and cool. There is the silent PC group that will give up some cooling capacity to not hear the computer run. As long as temperatures are within specs it's fine. Then there is the average Joe who just wants a nice looking case, that does what a case is supposed to do. That would be housing the components purchased for the build. Cost, as well as the size of the enclosure, are both priorities for the average user. In today's environment of ever increasing energy costs, what is becoming a major selling point on new builds? Power consumption of course!

The Antec NSK 3480 MicroATX is an upgrade from the Antec NSK 3400. The upgrade is in the form of the 380watt 80 plus certified power supply. What does 80 plus mean you ask? It means that at any time the power supply is under a load from 20 to 100%, the power supply runs at at least 80% efficiency. The NSK 3480 offers dual chamber construction to isolate the power supply from the operating component, four drive bays, four expansion slots, and a 120mm three speed fan for cooling this enclosure. Could this be the case for your next build? Let's find out!

Closer Look:

The packaging for the Antec NSK 3480 illustrates the case on the front panel.The rear panel shows additional case views and the specifications of the enclosure. The side panels give additional information in different languages so the information is available not just in English. RoHS compliance and power efficiency are highlights of the text on the package.

The box was surprisingly heavy for such a small enclosure. The Antec NSK 3480 is wrapped in plastic and inserted into cardboard blocks to prevent any damage during transit. The instruction manual is included on the plastic sheeting around the Antec NSK 3480.